MSP condemns call to change Union flag

A CAMPAIGN is being launched to change the Union flag so that it includes the colour black as a symbol of the diversity of the people of the UK.

The controversial proposal was put forward by Nigel Turner, a chief executive for a charity who works in London. The plan was immediately attacked by Phil Gallie, the Scottish Conservative spokesman on constitutional affairs, who described the plan as "political correctness gone bananas".

He said: "On receiving details of the proposals, I checked the calendar to ensure that it was not 1 April. I recognise the contribution made to our nation’s history of people of all colours, not just white and black.

"The flag of the United Kingdom is just that - made up of the three national flags of the British Isles’ kingdoms. We should all celebrate cultural diversity in the UK, but the suggestion that our flag should be redesigned is ridiculous tokenism."

Mr Turner stressed he had no political background or leanings and said he had launched the campaign to test public opinion.

He said the UK had come a long way in the last 50 years towards creating a true multi-racial society.

"It’s time to wave the flag and celebrate the progress that’s been made," Mr Turner added. "A number of countries around the globe have black in their flags to represent the colour of their people.

"It makes sense for the UK to have black and white in our flag to represent the different races."